Hardware storage device optimization

ABSTRACT

A method and system for improving operation of a memory device is provided. The method includes detecting, via sensors, environmental factors affecting an operation of individual hardware storage devices within an array of hardware storage devices. The environmental factors are analyzed with respect to operational characteristics of the individual hardware storage devices and a resulting expected failure rate for the individual hardware storage devices is determined. Array parameters associated with a hardware configuration for the array of hardware storage devices with respect to each expected failure rate are determined and associated issues are detected. Reliability characteristics and associated risks of the array of hardware storage devices are determined and a functionality of the array of hardware storage devices is modified.

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a method for determininghardware storage device failure and in particular to a method andassociated system for improving a functionality of an array of hardwarestorage devices by improving a reliability of at least one of the arrayof hardware storage devices.

BACKGROUND

Accurately identifying storage issues typically includes an inaccurateprocess with little flexibility. Determining malfunctions with respectto storage devices may include a complicated process that may be timeconsuming and require a large amount of resources. Accordingly, thereexists a need in the art to overcome at least some of the deficienciesand limitations described herein above.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides a memory device operationalimprovement method comprising: detecting, by a processor of a hardwaredevice via a plurality of sensors, environmental factors affecting anoperation of individual hardware storage devices within an array ofhardware storage devices; first analyzing, by the processor, theenvironmental factors with respect to operational characteristics of theindividual hardware storage devices; determining, by the processor basedon results of the first analyzing, an expected failure rate for each ofthe individual hardware storage devices; receiving, by the processor,data describing a hardware configuration for the array of hardwarestorage devices; second analyzing, by the processor, array parametersassociated with the hardware configuration for the array of hardwarestorage devices with respect to each the expected failure rate; firstdetermining, by the processor based results of the second analyzing, arisk for data loss with respect to malfunctions of the array of hardwarestorage devices, an expected rebuild time for each of the individualhardware storage devices, and a number of additional hardware storagedevices required for stocking due to the malfunctions; seconddetermining, by the processor based results of the first determining,reliability characteristics and associated risks of the array ofhardware storage devices; determining, by the processor, that thereliability characteristics and associated risks are not within anacceptable tolerance level; and modifying, by the processor based on thedetermining that the reliability characteristics and associated risksare not within the acceptable tolerance level, a functionality of thearray of hardware storage devices thereby modifying an operation of atleast one of the individual hardware storage devices.

A second aspect of the invention provides A computer program product,comprising a computer readable hardware storage device storing acomputer readable program code, the computer readable program codecomprising an algorithm that when executed by a processor of a hardwaredevice implements a memory device operational improvement method, themethod comprising: detecting, by the processor via a plurality ofsensors, environmental factors affecting an operation of individualhardware storage devices within an array of hardware storage devices;first analyzing, by the processor, the environmental factors withrespect to operational characteristics of the individual hardwarestorage devices; determining, by the processor based on results of thefirst analyzing, an expected failure rate for each of the individualhardware storage devices; receiving, by the processor, data describing ahardware configuration for the array of hardware storage devices; secondanalyzing, by the processor, array parameters associated with thehardware configuration for the array of hardware storage devices withrespect to each the expected failure rate; first determining, by theprocessor based results of the second analyzing, a risk for data losswith respect to malfunctions of the array of hardware storage devices,an expected rebuild time for each of the individual hardware storagedevices, and a number of additional hardware storage devices requiredfor stocking due to the malfunctions; second determining, by theprocessor based results of the first determining, reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks of the array of hardware storagedevices; determining, by the processor, that the reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks are not within an acceptabletolerance level; and modifying, by the processor based on thedetermining that the reliability characteristics and associated risksare not within the acceptable tolerance level, a functionality of thearray of hardware storage devices thereby modifying an operation of atleast one of the individual hardware storage devices.

A third aspect of the invention provides a computer program product,comprising a computer readable hardware storage device storing acomputer readable program code, the computer readable program codecomprising an algorithm that when executed by a processor of a hardwaredevice implements a memory device operational improvement method, themethod comprising: detecting, by the processor via a plurality ofsensors, environmental factors affecting an operation of individualhardware storage devices within an array of hardware storage devices;first analyzing, by the processor, the environmental factors withrespect to operational characteristics of the individual hardwarestorage devices; determining, by the processor based on results of thefirst analyzing, an expected failure rate for each of the individualhardware storage devices; receiving, by the processor, data describing ahardware configuration for the array of hardware storage devices; secondanalyzing, by the processor, array parameters associated with thehardware configuration for the array of hardware storage devices withrespect to each the expected failure rate; first determining, by theprocessor based results of the second analyzing, a risk for data losswith respect to malfunctions of the array of hardware storage devices,an expected rebuild time for each of the individual hardware storagedevices, and a number of additional hardware storage devices requiredfor stocking due to the malfunctions; second determining, by theprocessor based results of the first determining, reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks of the array of hardware storagedevices; determining, by the processor, that the reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks are not within an acceptabletolerance level; and modifying, by the processor based on thedetermining that the reliability characteristics and associated risksare not within the acceptable tolerance level, a functionality of thearray of hardware storage devices thereby modifying an operation of atleast one of the individual hardware storage devices.

The present invention advantageously provides a simple method andassociated system capable of accurately identifying storage issues.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a system for improving a functionality of an array ofhardware storage devices by improving a reliability of at least one ofthe array of hardware storage devices, in accordance with embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates an algorithm detailing a process flow enabled by thesystem of FIG. 1 for improving a functionality of an array of hardwarestorage devices by improving a reliability of at least one of the arrayof hardware storage devices, in accordance with embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a computer system used by the system of FIG. 1 forenabling a process for improving a functionality of an array of hardwarestorage devices by improving a reliability of at least one of the arrayof hardware storage devices, in accordance with embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cloud computing environment, in accordance withembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a set of functional abstraction layers provided bycloud computing environment, in accordance with embodiments of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 for improving a functionality of anarray of hardware storage devices 110 a by improving a reliability of atleast one of the array of hardware storage devices 110 a, in accordancewith embodiments of the present invention. Additionally, system 100improves parameters for the array of hardware storage devices 110 aand/or environmental parameters are improved as detailed with respect toFIG. 1, infra. System 100 may comprise a disk array failure riskmitigation system 110 comprising array of hardware storage devices 110 aand a storage controller 110 b. System 100 is enabled to: aggregate apredicted risk for hardware storage device (hardware disk drive storagedevice (e.g., hardware disk drives) failures for each individualhardware storage device within array of hardware storage devices 110 a;predict a risk for data loss within array of hardware storage devices110 a based on analyses of aggregated predicted risks; and determinethat the array of hardware storage devices 110 a requires remediation ifthe predicted risk for data loss exceeds a predetermined threshold.

An array of hardware storage devices 110 a (e.g., a disk array) isdefined herein as a hardware element (i.e., plurality of interconnectedstorage devices) comprising a large group of hard disk drives (HDDs)comprising several disk drive trays. Array of hardware storage devices110 a comprises architecture for improving a data storage speed andincreasing data storage protection. Array of hardware storage devices110 a is enabled via a storage controller 110 b for coordinatingactivity within the array. A disk array forms the backbone of storagenetworking environments. Array of hardware storage devices 110 a isconfigured to provide increased availability, resiliency, andmaintainability via usage of existing components (e.g., controllers,power supplies, fans, etc.) such that all single points of failure(SPOFs) are eliminated from the design. Array of hardware storagedevices 110 a may comprise the following array categories: networkattached storage (NAS) arrays, storage area network (SAN) arrays,modular SAN arrays, monolithic SAN arrays, utility storage arrays,storage virtualization arrays, redundant array of independent disks(RAID), etc. A storage area network (SAN) comprises one or more diskarrays that function as a repository for data being moved in and out ofthe SAN. A RAID is defined herein as two or more interconnected drivesfor improving data storage performance and fault tolerance. A RAIDcomprises a data storage virtualization technology that combinesmultiple physical disk drive components into a single logical unit forthe purposes of data redundancy, performance improvement, etc. A RAIDenables the storage of data in multiple locations to protect the dataagainst corruption and to provide the data for users quickly.

System 100 comprises environmental sensors (e.g., temperature sensors116 in FIG. 1) and generates drive reliability data to predictindividual hardware (disk) drive failure rates. Subsequently, system 100analyzes a configuration for array of hardware storage devices 110 acurrently in place to calculate a risk of data loss and a time andperformance impact of hardware device array rebuild operations. If adetermined current combination of maintenance costs with respect to theenvironmental parameters and a predicted risk of data loss aredetermined to exceed a user threshold, system 100 determines alternativepossibilities associated with modifications to the hardware device arrayconfigurations, environmental parameters, or any combination therein.Additionally, a user may optionally input acceptable risk and rebuildfrequency parameters to limit alternative modification possibilitiesthat are displayed. System 100 presents the alternative modificationpossibilities to the user. If only one of the alternative modificationpossibilities is able to be executed, system 100 may automaticallyimplement the alternative modification. If more than one of thealternative modification possibilities is available for execution, theuser may select (via a graphical user interface) one of the alternativemodifications. Alternatively, system 100 may select an alternativemodification with respect to a pre-established rule (e.g., a lowestfeasible value at a given risk of data loss constraint, a lowestfeasible risk of data loss at a given value constraint). Subsequently,system 100 enables any required changes to the hardware (disk) drivearray configurations necessitated by the selected alternativemodification by interfacing with all hardware storage subsystems.Additionally, system 100 is enabled to modify environmental parametersto conform to the selected alternative modification. For example, system100 may: automatically switch to or from outside (ambient) air coolingvia usage of an automatic switch, raise or lowing temperature set point(thermostat) of an HVAC system by means of electronic control, or alertan operator via a GUI console alert, email, or call out to modifyenvironmental control changes manually.

System 100 of FIG. 1 includes array mitigation system 110 (comprisingarray of hardware storage devices 110 a and storage controller 110 b)connected through a network 137 to temperature (or any type of) sensors116, disk array modification system 118, manual adjustment system 120,HVAC systems 122, outdoor air temperature system 125, administratorinput systems 128, database systems 114, and a controller server 112.Temperature sensors 116 are configured to monitor a temperature of astructure (e.g., a room) housing array of hardware storage devices 110 aas well as the components (array mitigation system 110) themselves. Diskarray modification system 118 is configured to determine disk arraymodifications (e.g., an array size, parity drives, spare drives, etc.).Manual adjustment system 120 comprises controls for implementing thedisk array modifications via a graphical user interface (GUI). HVACsystems 122 comprise controls for automatically controlling HVAC systemsbased on an output from temperature sensors 116. Additionally, HVACsystems 122 comprise controls for monitoring outdoor air temperaturesystem 125 and controlling HVAC systems based on the output.Administrator input systems 128 are configured to determine a risk levelacceptability with respect to risks for data loss due to issues witharray of hardware storage devices 110 a. Database systems 114 storeattributes associated with array of hardware storage devices 110 a. Forexample, database systems 114 store hardware storage device locationsand types, an environmental history associated with each device of arrayof hardware storage devices 110 a, array configurations, devicereliability characteristics, etc. Controller server 112 is configured tomonitor, assess, and control all functions of array mitigation system110. Storage controller 110 b, temperature sensors 116 (controller),disk array modification system 118, manual adjustment system 120, HVACsystems 122, outdoor air temperature system 125, administrator inputsystems 128, database systems 114, and a controller server 112 each maycomprise an embedded device. An embedded device is defined herein as adedicated device or computer comprising a combination of computerhardware and software (fixed in capability or programmable) specificallydesigned for executing a specialized function. Programmable embeddedcomputers or devices may comprise specialized programming interfaces. Inone embodiment, storage controller 110 b, temperature sensors 116(controller), disk array modification system 118, manual adjustmentsystem 120, HVAC systems 122, outdoor air temperature system 125,administrator input systems 128, database systems 114, and controllerserver 112 each may each comprise a specialized hardware devicecomprising specialized (non-generic) hardware and circuitry (i.e.,specialized discrete non-generic analog, digital, and logic basedcircuitry) for (independently or in combination) executing a processdescribed with respect to FIGS. 1-5. The specialized discretenon-generic analog, digital, and logic based circuitry may includeproprietary specially designed components (e.g., a specializedintegrated circuit, such as for example an Application SpecificIntegrated Circuit (ASIC) designed for only implementing an automatedprocess for improving a functionality of an array of hardware storagedevices 110 a by improving a reliability of at least one of the array ofhardware storage devices 110 a. Any of storage controller 110 b,temperature sensors 116 (controller), disk array modification system118, manual adjustment system 120, HVAC systems 122, outdoor airtemperature system 125, administrator input systems 128, databasesystems 114, and controller server 112 may include a memory system andsoftware. The memory system may include a single memory system.Alternatively, the memory system may include a plurality of memorysystems. Network 137 may include any type of network including, interalia, a local area network, (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), theInternet, a wireless network, etc.

System 100 executes a process associated with predictive analyticsregarding an impact of environmental conditions with respect toindividual disk drive failures, risk of data loss, and recommendedcorrective actions. For example, the following process illustrates apredictive analytics process:

Analytics from individual disk drive predictions are retrieved andapplied to additional analytics for predicting a risk for losing datawithin an array of disk drives. The analytics are dependent on a numberof disk drives in an array, associated performance characteristics, atype of RAID being used, and a load on the array. The analytics areexecuted with respect to a range of array sizes and types applicable toa specified situation. Sizes and types of disk arrays for providingacceptable data protection are determined based on predicted failurerates for individual disk drives, acceptable risk levels and acceptableperformance impacts from disk drive rebuild processes. In response,current environmental conditions and associated spare drives for stockreplacing failed disk drives are determined. If a current combination ofdisk drive types, array sizes, and number of parity disk drives does notconform to an acceptable level of risk and performance characteristics,environmental and/or array changes are determined. The changes areassociated with bringing risk and performance factors into an acceptablerange.

System 100 enables a process for measuring multiple disk drive arrayoperational inputs such as, inter alia, an average temperature, a peakdaily temperature, a humidity level, a vibration level, a particulatelevel, air flow volume (e.g., within a data center, an air handler, arack, a chassis, etc.), a type and number of disk drives, etc. Themeasured operational inputs are first analyzed via execution ofalgorithms such as, inter alia, linear regression, non-linearregression, neural networks, etc. to generate a first output associatedwith a number of disk drive failures, a pattern/timing of expectedfailures (e.g., a maximum number per day), etc. A second analysis isexecuted using the first output as input in combination with one or moreof the following inputs: a RAID level(s) in use, a number of disk drivesin an array(s), a number of hot spare disk drives available, a number ofparity drive in each array, an average load on the disk array(s),average rebuild time within a disk array(s), a number of spare diskdrives on hand, a speed at which failed disk drives are replaced withspare disk drives, etc.

The first analysis is executed with respect to disk drive arrayenvironmental conditions and disk drive characteristics. For example, amethod for determining a potential disk drive error may include, interalia, providing a disk drive that includes a differential pressuresensor for measuring a difference in pressure between differing portionsof an enclosure housing the disk drive. The measured difference inpressure is analyzed and the analysis provides a risk assessment todetermine the potential disk drive error. Alternatively, temperature orlubricant issues may be analyzed to determine the potential disk driveerror.

An output from the first analysis comprises a predicted failure rate fora disk drive over time and may be expressed mathematically as R(t). Forexample, if an output of the first analysis determines a prediction thatone disk drive out of 100 will fail in the next month, then r (i.e.,month)=0.01. The second analysis may include computing a risk for dataloss due to multiple disk drive failures in an disk drive array over agiven time t. Therefore, an array of d data (disk) drives and p parity(disk) drives (where p>=1) with a drive rebuild rate r expressed in thesame units as t may comprise an assumed infinite supply of availablespare drives as follows:RDL(t)=(probability a drive fails*time to rebuild a faileddrive)*(probability another drive fails while rebuilding)^# of paritydrives.

Therefore, a probability that another disk drive fails may depend on anumber of remaining healthy drives that decrement by one as eachconcurrent rebuild occurs. The probability may be determinedprogrammatically via a counting loop that iterates once for each paritydisk drive. For example, results may include:

1. RDL(t)=((d+1)*R(t)*(r/t))*(d*R(t)) for RAID-5 (1 parity drive).

2. RDL(t)=((d+2)*R(t)*(r/t))*((d+1)*R(t))*(d*R(t)) for RAID-6 (2 paritydrives).

The aforementioned example results illustrate that a user may determinethat a RDL(t) for a given combination of disk drive type, disk driveenvironment, disk drive array size, and number of parity drives isunacceptably high. Therefore, the following algorithm described withrespect to FIG. 2 illustrates various array characteristics andenvironmental parameters that may be modified to produce an RDL(t) whichis acceptable to the user.

FIG. 2 illustrates an algorithm detailing a process flow enabled bysystem 100 of FIG. 1 for improving a functionality of an array ofhardware storage devices 110 a by improving a reliability of at leastone of the array of hardware storage devices 110 a, in accordance withembodiments of the present invention. Each of the steps in the algorithmof FIG. 2 may be enabled and executed in any order by a computerprocessor(s) executing computer code. Additionally, each of the steps inthe algorithm of FIG. 2 may be enabled and executed in combination bystorage controller 110 b, temperature sensors 116 (controller), diskarray modification system 118, manual adjustment system 120, HVACsystems 122, outdoor air temperature system 125, administrator inputsystems 128, database systems 114, and a controller server 112 ofFIG. 1. In step 200, environmental factors affecting an operation ofindividual hardware storage devices within an array of hardware storagedevices are detected via a plurality of sensors. The sensors mayinclude, inter alia, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, pressuresensors, optical sensors, etc. In step 202, the environmental factorsare analyzed with respect to operational characteristics of theindividual hardware storage devices. In step 204, an expected failurerate for each of the individual hardware storage devices is determinedbased on the analysis of step 202. In step 208, data describing ahardware configuration for the array of hardware storage devices isreceived. In step 210, array parameters associated with the hardwareconfiguration for the array of hardware storage devices with respect toeach expected failure rate are analyzed. In step 212, a risk for dataloss with respect to malfunctions of the array of hardware storagedevices, an expected rebuild time for each of the individual hardwarestorage devices, and a number of additional hardware storage devicesrequired for stocking due to the malfunctions are determined based onresults of the analysis of step 210. In step 214, reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks of the array of hardware storagedevices are determined based on results of step 212. In step 219, it isdetermined that the reliability characteristics and associated risks arenot within an acceptable tolerance level. In step 224, a functionalityof the array of hardware storage devices is modified (based on resultsof step 219) thereby modifying an operation of at least one of theindividual hardware storage devices. The functionality modificationprocess may include:

1. Receiving a plurality of predetermined groups of modificationattributes associated with: the environmental factors, the hardwareconfiguration for the array of hardware storage devices, and thereliability characteristics of the array of hardware storage devices.2. Determining (based on user input and feedback from the plurality ofsensors) if a predetermined group of the plurality of predeterminedgroups of modification attributes comprises an associated modificationfor improving the functionality of the array of hardware storagedevices.

If it is determined that the predetermined group of the plurality ofpredetermined groups of modification attributes comprises an associatedmodification for improving the functionality of the array of hardwarestorage devices, the modification process may further include: applyingthe predetermined group to a control system of the hardware device andexecuting (via the control system) the modification in response to theapplying process.

If it is determined that the predetermined group of the plurality ofpredetermined groups of modification attributes does not comprise anassociated modification for improving the functionality of the array ofhardware storage devices, the modification process may further include:

1. Executing (via a control system of the hardware device) a change tothe array parameters with respect to the array of hardware storagedevices. Alternatively, environmental control attributes associated withcontrol of the environmental factors with respect to the operationalcharacteristics of the individual hardware storage devices may beexecuted.2. Modifying (via the control system) at least one array parameterand/or at least one environmental control attribute.3. Executing the analysis of step 210 with respect to current arrayparameters associated with the hardware configuration for the array ofhardware storage devices with respect to each expected failure rate. Theoriginal or current array parameters may include the following actions:automatically connecting a spare hardware device to the array ofhardware storage devices, connecting an additional parity device to thearray of hardware storage devices, reducing or enlarging the number ofdata drives in the array of hardware storage devices, changing theencoding or error correction scheme of the array of hardware storagedevices, etc. Alternatively, current environmental factors may beexecuted with respect to the operational characteristics of theindividual hardware storage device. The environmental control attributesmay include an action associated with modifying an HVAC system for astructure housing the array of hardware storage devices. The HVAC systemmay be enabled to control heat functions, humidity functions, and/orairflow functions for the structure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a computer system 90 (e.g., hardware storage devices110 a, storage controller 110 b, temperature sensors 116, disk arraymodification system 118, manual adjustment system 120, HVAC systems 122,outdoor air temperature system 125, administrator input systems 128,database systems 114, and a controller server 112 of FIG. 1) used by orcomprised by the system of FIG. 1 for improving a functionality of anarray of hardware storage devices by improving a reliability of at leastone of the array of hardware storage devices, in accordance withembodiments of the present invention.

Aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirelyhardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (includingfirmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodimentcombining software and hardware aspects that may all generally bereferred to herein as a “circuit,” “module,” or “system.”

The present invention may be a system, a method, and/or a computerprogram product. The computer program product may include a computerreadable storage medium (or media) having computer readable programinstructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of thepresent invention.

The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that canretain and store instructions for use by an instruction executiondevice. The computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but isnot limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device,an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, asemiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of theforegoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of thecomputer readable storage medium includes the following: a portablecomputer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), aread-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROMor Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portablecompact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD),a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such aspunch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructionsrecorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. Acomputer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construedas being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freelypropagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagatingthrough a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulsespassing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmittedthrough a wire.

Computer readable program instructions described herein can bedownloaded to respective computing/processing devices from a computerreadable storage medium or to an external computer or external storagedevice via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, awide area network and/or a wireless network. The network may comprisecopper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wirelesstransmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and/oredge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in eachcomputing/processing apparatus receives computer readable programinstructions from the network and forwards the computer readable programinstructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium withinthe respective computing/processing device.

Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations ofthe present invention may be assembler instructions,instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions,machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions,state-setting data, or either source code or object code written in anycombination of one or more programming languages, including an objectoriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++ or the like, andconventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C”programming language or similar programming languages. The computerreadable program instructions may execute entirely on the user'scomputer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone softwarepackage, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computeror entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario,the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through anytype of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide areanetwork (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer(for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).In some embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example,programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), orprogrammable logic arrays (PLA) may execute the computer readableprogram instructions by utilizing state information of the computerreadable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry,in order to perform aspects of the present invention.

Aspects of the present invention are described herein with reference toflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, device(systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of theinvention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchartillustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in theflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented bycomputer readable program instructions.

These computer readable program instructions may be provided to aprocessor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, orother programmable data processing device to produce a machine, suchthat the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computeror other programmable data processing device, create means forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructionsmay also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can directa computer, a programmable data processing device, and/or other devicesto function in a particular manner, such that the computer readablestorage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an articleof manufacture including instructions which implement aspects of thefunction/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block orblocks.

The computer readable program instructions may also be loaded onto acomputer, other programmable data processing device, or other device tocause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer,other programmable device or other device to produce a computerimplemented process, such that the instructions which execute on thecomputer, other programmable device, or other device implement thefunctions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block orblocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, methods, and computer program products according to variousembodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in theflowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portionof instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions forimplementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternativeimplementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of theorder noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in successionmay, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks maysometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon thefunctionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of theblock diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocksin the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implementedby special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specifiedfunctions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardwareand computer instructions.

The computer system 90 illustrated in FIG. 3 includes a processor 91, aninput device 92 coupled to the processor 91, an output device 93 coupledto the processor 91, and memory devices 94 and 95 each coupled to theprocessor 91. The input device 92 may be, inter alia, a keyboard, amouse, a camera, a touchscreen, etc. The output device 93 may be, interalia, a printer, a plotter, a computer screen, a magnetic tape, aremovable hard disk, a floppy disk, etc. The memory devices 94 and 95may be, inter alia, a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic tape, anoptical storage such as a compact disc (CD) or a digital video disc(DVD), a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a read-only memory (ROM),etc. The memory device 95 includes a computer code 97. The computer code97 includes algorithms (e.g., the algorithm of FIG. 2) for improving afunctionality of an array of hardware storage devices by improving areliability of at least one of the array of hardware storage devices.The processor 91 executes the computer code 97. The memory device 94includes input data 96. The input data 96 includes input required by thecomputer code 97. The output device 93 displays output from the computercode 97. Either or both memory devices 94 and 95 (or one or moreadditional memory devices Such as read only memory device 85) mayinclude algorithms (e.g., the algorithm of FIG. 3) and may be used as acomputer usable medium (or a computer readable medium or a programstorage device) having a computer readable program code embodied thereinand/or having other data stored therein, wherein the computer readableprogram code includes the computer code 97. Generally, a computerprogram product (or, alternatively, an article of manufacture) of thecomputer system 90 may include the computer usable medium (or theprogram storage device).

In some embodiments, rather than being stored and accessed from a harddrive, optical disc or other writeable, rewriteable, or removablehardware memory device 95, stored computer program code 84 (e.g.,including algorithms) may be stored on a static, nonremovable, read-onlystorage medium such as a Read-Only Memory (ROM) device 85, or may beaccessed by processor 91 directly from such a static, nonremovable,read-only medium 85. Similarly, in some embodiments, stored computerprogram code 97 may be stored as computer-readable firmware 85, or maybe accessed by processor 91 directly from such firmware 85, rather thanfrom a more dynamic or removable hardware data-storage device 95, suchas a hard drive or optical disc.

Still yet, any of the components of the present invention could becreated, integrated, hosted, maintained, deployed, managed, serviced,etc. by a service supplier who offers to improve a functionality of anarray of hardware storage devices by improving a reliability of at leastone of the array of hardware storage devices. Thus, the presentinvention discloses a process for deploying, creating, integrating,hosting, maintaining, and/or integrating computing infrastructure,including integrating computer-readable code into the computer system90, wherein the code in combination with the computer system 90 iscapable of performing a method for enabling a process for improving afunctionality of an array of hardware storage devices by improving areliability of at least one of the array of hardware storage devices. Inanother embodiment, the invention provides a business method thatperforms the process steps of the invention on a subscription,advertising, and/or fee basis. That is, a service supplier, such as aSolution Integrator, could offer to enable a process for improving afunctionality of an array of hardware storage devices by improving areliability of at least one of the array of hardware storage devices. Inthis case, the service supplier can create, maintain, support, etc. acomputer infrastructure that performs the process steps of the inventionfor one or more customers. In return, the service supplier can receivepayment from the customer(s) under a subscription and/or fee agreementand/or the service supplier can receive payment from the sale ofadvertising content to one or more third parties.

While FIG. 3 shows the computer system 90 as a particular configurationof hardware and software, any configuration of hardware and software, aswould be known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, may be utilizedfor the purposes stated supra in conjunction with the particularcomputer system 90 of FIG. 3. For example, the memory devices 94 and 95may be portions of a single memory device rather than separate memorydevices.

Cloud Computing Environment

It is to be understood that although this disclosure includes a detaileddescription on cloud computing, implementation of the teachings recitedherein are not limited to a cloud computing environment. Rather,embodiments of the present invention are capable of being implemented inconjunction with any other type of computing environment now known orlater developed.

Cloud computing is a model of service delivery for enabling convenient,on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computingresources (e.g., networks, network bandwidth, servers, processing,memory, storage, applications, virtual machines, and services) that canbe rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort orinteraction with a provider of the service. This cloud model may includeat least five characteristics, at least three service models, and atleast four deployment models.

Characteristics are as follows:

On-demand self-service: a cloud consumer can unilaterally provisioncomputing capabilities, such as server time and network storage, asneeded automatically without requiring human interaction with theservice's provider.

Broad network access: capabilities are available over a network andaccessed through standard mechanisms that promote use by heterogeneousthin or thick client platforms (e.g., mobile phones, laptops, and PDAs).

Resource pooling: the provider's computing resources are pooled to servemultiple consumers using a multi-tenant model, with different physicaland virtual resources dynamically assigned and reassigned according todemand. There is a sense of location independence in that the consumergenerally has no control or knowledge over the exact location of theprovided resources but may be able to specify location at a higher levelof abstraction (e.g., country, state, or datacenter).

Rapid elasticity: capabilities can be rapidly and elasticallyprovisioned, in some cases automatically, to quickly scale out andrapidly released to quickly scale in. To the consumer, the capabilitiesavailable for provisioning often appear to be unlimited and can bepurchased in any quantity at any time.

Measured service: cloud systems automatically control and optimizeresource use by leveraging a metering capability at some level ofabstraction appropriate to the type of service (e.g., storage,processing, bandwidth, and active user accounts). Resource usage can bemonitored, controlled, and reported, providing transparency for both theprovider and consumer of the utilized service.

Service Models are as follows:

Software as a Service (SaaS): the capability provided to the consumer isto use the provider's applications running on a cloud infrastructure.The applications are accessible from various client devices through athin client interface such as a web browser (e.g., web-based e-mail).The consumer does not manage or control the underlying cloudinfrastructure including network, servers, operating systems, storage,or even individual application capabilities, with the possible exceptionof limited user-specific application configuration settings.

Platform as a Service (PaaS): the capability provided to the consumer isto deploy onto the cloud infrastructure consumer-created or acquiredapplications created using programming languages and tools supported bythe provider. The consumer does not manage or control the underlyingcloud infrastructure including networks, servers, operating systems, orstorage, but has control over the deployed applications and possiblyapplication hosting environment configurations.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): the capability provided to theconsumer is to provision processing, storage, networks, and otherfundamental computing resources where the consumer is able to deploy andrun arbitrary software, which can include operating systems andapplications. The consumer does not manage or control the underlyingcloud infrastructure but has control over operating systems, storage,deployed applications, and possibly limited control of select networkingcomponents (e.g., host firewalls).

Deployment Models are as follows:

Private cloud: the cloud infrastructure is operated solely for anorganization. It may be managed by the organization or a third party andmay exist on-premises or off-premises.

Community cloud: the cloud infrastructure is shared by severalorganizations and supports a specific community that has shared concerns(e.g., mission, security requirements, policy, and complianceconsiderations). It may be managed by the organizations or a third partyand may exist on-premises or off-premises.

Public cloud: the cloud infrastructure is made available to the generalpublic or a large industry group and is owned by an organization sellingcloud services.

Hybrid cloud: the cloud infrastructure is a composition of two or moreclouds (private, community, or public) that remain unique entities butare bound together by standardized or proprietary technology thatenables data and application portability (e.g., cloud bursting forload-balancing between clouds).

A cloud computing environment is service oriented with a focus onstatelessness, low coupling, modularity, and semantic interoperability.At the heart of cloud computing is an infrastructure that includes anetwork of interconnected nodes.

Referring now to FIG. 4, illustrative cloud computing environment 50 isdepicted. As shown, cloud computing environment 50 includes one or morecloud computing nodes 10 with which local computing devices used bycloud consumers, such as, for example, personal digital assistant (PDA)or cellular telephone 54A, desktop computer 54B, laptop computer 54C,and/or automobile computer system 54N may communicate. Nodes 10 maycommunicate with one another. They may be grouped (not shown) physicallyor virtually, in one or more networks, such as Private, Community,Public, or Hybrid clouds as described hereinabove, or a combinationthereof. This allows cloud computing environment 50 to offerinfrastructure, platforms and/or software as services for which a cloudconsumer does not need to maintain resources on a local computingdevice. It is understood that the types of computing devices 54A, 54B,54C and 54N shown in FIG. 4 are intended to be illustrative only andthat computing nodes 10 and cloud computing environment 50 cancommunicate with any type of computerized device over any type ofnetwork and/or network addressable connection (e.g., using a webbrowser).

Referring now to FIG. 5, a set of functional abstraction layers providedby cloud computing environment 50 (see FIG. 4) is shown. It should beunderstood in advance that the components, layers, and functions shownin FIG. 5 are intended to be illustrative only and embodiments of theinvention are not limited thereto. As depicted, the following layers andcorresponding functions are provided:

Hardware and software layer 60 includes hardware and softwarecomponents. Examples of hardware components include: mainframes 61; RISC(Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture based servers 62;servers 63; blade servers 64; storage devices 65; and networks andnetworking components 66. In some embodiments, software componentsinclude network application server software 67 and database software 68.

Virtualization layer 70 provides an abstraction layer from which thefollowing examples of virtual entities may be provided: virtual servers71; virtual storage 72; virtual networks 73, including virtual privatenetworks; virtual applications and operating systems 74; and virtualclients 75.

In one example, management layer 80 may provide the functions describedbelow. Resource provisioning 81 provides dynamic procurement ofcomputing resources and other resources that are utilized to performtasks within the cloud computing environment. Metering and Pricing 82provide cost tracking as resources are utilized within the cloudcomputing environment, and billing or invoicing for consumption of theseresources. In one example, these resources may include applicationsoftware licenses. Security provides identity verification for cloudconsumers and tasks, as well as protection for data and other resources.User portal 83 provides access to the cloud computing environment forconsumers and system administrators. Service level management 84provides cloud computing resource allocation and management such thatrequired service levels are met. Service Level Agreement (SLA) planningand fulfillment 85 provide pre-arrangement for, and procurement of,cloud computing resources for which a future requirement is anticipatedin accordance with an SLA.

Workloads layer 89 provides examples of functionality for which thecloud computing environment may be utilized. Examples of workloads andfunctions which may be provided from this layer include: mapping andnavigation 91; software development and lifecycle management 92; virtualclassroom education delivery 93; data analytics processing 94;transaction processing 95; and for improving a functionality of an arrayof hardware storage devices by improving a reliability of at least oneof the array of hardware storage devices. The array of hardware storagedevices may be comprised by the cloud computing environment.Alternatively, the array of hardware storage devices may be comprised byan environment shared between legacy users and cloud computingenvironment users.

While embodiments of the present invention have been described hereinfor purposes of illustration, many modifications and changes will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the appended claimsare intended to encompass all such modifications and changes as fallwithin the true spirit and scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A memory device operational improvement methodcomprising: detecting, by a processor of a hardware device via aplurality of sensors, environmental factors affecting an operation ofindividual hardware storage devices within an array of hardware storagedevices; first analyzing, by said processor, said environmental factorswith respect to operational characteristics of said individual hardwarestorage devices; determining, by said processor based on results of saidfirst analyzing, an expected failure rate for each of said individualhardware storage devices; receiving, by said processor, data describinga hardware configuration for said array of hardware storage devices;second analyzing, by said processor, array parameters associated withsaid hardware configuration for said array of hardware storage deviceswith respect to each said expected failure rate; first determining, bysaid processor based on results of said second analyzing, a risk fordata loss with respect to malfunctions of said array of hardware storagedevices, an expected rebuild time for each of said individual hardwarestorage devices, and a number of additional hardware storage devicesrequired for stocking due to said malfunctions; second determining, bysaid processor based results of said first determining, reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks of said array of hardware storagedevices; determining, by said processor, that said reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks are not within an acceptabletolerance level; and modifying, by said processor based on saiddetermining that said reliability characteristics and associated risksare not within said acceptable tolerance level, a functionality of saidarray of hardware storage devices thereby modifying an operation of atleast one of said individual hardware storage devices.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said modifying comprises: receiving a plurality ofpredetermined groups of modification attributes associated with: saidenvironmental factors, said hardware configuration for said array ofhardware storage devices, and said reliability characteristics of saidarray of hardware storage devices; and third determining, based on userinput and feedback from said plurality of sensors, if a predeterminedgroup of said plurality of predetermined groups of modificationattributes comprises associated modification for improving saidfunctionality of said array of hardware storage devices.
 3. The methodof claim 2, wherein results of said third determining indicate that saidpredetermined group comprises associated modification for improving saidfunctionality of said array of hardware storage devices; and whereinsaid modifying further comprises: applying said predetermined group to acontrol system of said hardware device; and executing, via said controlsystem, said modifying in response to said applying.
 4. The method ofclaim 2, wherein results of said third determining indicate that saidpredetermined group does not comprise associated modifications forimproving said functionality of said array of hardware storage devices;and wherein said modifying further comprises: executing, via a controlsystem of said hardware device, said array parameters with respect tosaid array of hardware storage devices; modifying, via said controlsystem, at least one array parameter of said array parameters resultingin said modifying said functionality of said array of hardware storagedevices; and executing said second analyzing with respect to currentarray parameters associated with said hardware configuration for saidarray of hardware storage devices with respect to each said expectedfailure rate.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein said array parameterscomprise actions selected from the group consisting of automaticallyconnecting a spare hardware device to said array of hardware storagedevices, connecting an additional parity device to said array ofhardware storage devices, reducing or enlarging the number of datadrives in said array of hardware storage devices, and changing theencoding or error correction scheme of said array of hardware storagedevices.
 6. The method of claim 2, wherein results of said thirddetermining indicate that said predetermined group does not compriseassociated modification for improving said functionality of said arrayof hardware storage devices; and wherein said modifying furthercomprises: executing, via a control system of said hardware device,environmental control attributes associated with control of saidenvironmental factors with respect to said operational characteristicsof said individual hardware storage devices; modifying, via said controlsystem, at least one environmental control attribute of saidenvironmental control attributes resulting in said modifying saidfunctionality of said array of hardware storage devices; and executingsaid first analyzing with respect to current environmental factors withrespect to said operational characteristics of said individual hardwarestorage device.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein said environmentalcontrol attributes comprise an action associated with modifying an HVACsystem for a structure comprising said array of hardware storagedevices.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein said HVAC system controlscooling functions, humidity functions, and airflow functions for saidstructure.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein said array of hardwarestorage devices comprises a redundant array of independent disks (RAID).10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing at least onesupport service for at least one of creating, integrating, hosting,maintaining, and deploying computer-readable code in the controlhardware, said code being executed by the computer processor toimplement: said detecting, said first analyzing, said determining saidexpected failure rate, said receiving, said second analyzing, said firstdetermining, said second determining, said determining that saidreliability characteristics and associated risks are not within anacceptable tolerance level, and said modifying.
 11. A computer programproduct, comprising a computer readable hardware storage device storinga computer readable program code, said computer readable program codecomprising an algorithm that when executed by a processor of a hardwaredevice implements a memory device operational improvement method, saidmethod comprising: detecting, by said processor via a plurality ofsensors, environmental factors affecting an operation of individualhardware storage devices within an array of hardware storage devices;first analyzing, by said processor, said environmental factors withrespect to operational characteristics of said individual hardwarestorage devices; determining, by said processor based on results of saidfirst analyzing, an expected failure rate for each of said individualhardware storage devices; receiving, by said processor, data describinga hardware configuration for said array of hardware storage devices;second analyzing, by said processor, array parameters associated withsaid hardware configuration for said array of hardware storage deviceswith respect to each said expected failure rate; first determining, bysaid processor based on results of said second analyzing, a risk fordata loss with respect to malfunctions of said array of hardware storagedevices, an expected rebuild time for each of said individual hardwarestorage devices, and a number of additional hardware storage devicesrequired for stocking due to said malfunctions; second determining, bysaid processor based results of said first determining, reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks of said array of hardware storagedevices; determining, by said processor, that said reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks are not within an acceptabletolerance level; and modifying, by said processor based on saiddetermining that said reliability characteristics and associated risksare not within said acceptable tolerance level, a functionality of saidarray of hardware storage devices thereby modifying an operation of atleast one of said individual hardware storage devices.
 12. The computerprogram product of claim 11, wherein said modifying comprises: receivinga plurality of predetermined groups of modification attributesassociated with: said environmental factors, said hardware configurationfor said array of hardware storage devices, and said reliabilitycharacteristics of said array of hardware storage devices; and thirddetermining, based on user input and feedback from said plurality ofsensors, if a predetermined group of said plurality of predeterminedgroups of modification attributes comprises associated modification forimproving said functionality of said array of hardware storage devices.13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein results of saidthird determining indicate that said predetermined group comprisesassociated modification for improving said functionality of said arrayof hardware storage devices; and wherein said modifying furthercomprises: applying said predetermined group to a control system of saidhardware device; and executing, via said control system, said modifyingin response to said applying.
 14. The computer program product of claim12, wherein results of said third determining indicate that saidpredetermined group does not comprise associated modification forimproving said functionality of said array of hardware storage devices;and wherein said modifying further comprises: executing, via a controlsystem of said hardware device, said array parameters with respect tosaid array of hardware storage devices; modifying, via said controlsystem, at least one array parameter of said array parameters resultingin said modifying said functionality of said array of hardware storagedevices; and executing said second analyzing with respect to currentarray parameters associated with said hardware configuration for saidarray of hardware storage devices with respect to each said expectedfailure rate.
 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein saidarray parameters comprise actions selected from the group consisting ofautomatically connecting a spare hardware device to said array ofhardware storage devices, connecting an additional parity device to saidarray of hardware storage devices, reducing or enlarging the number ofdata drives in said array of hardware storage devices, and changing theencoding or error correction scheme of said array of hardware storagedevices.
 16. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein resultsof said third determining indicate that said predetermined group doesnot comprise associated modification for improving said functionality ofsaid array of hardware storage devices; and wherein said modifyingfurther comprises: executing, via a control system of said hardwaredevice, environmental control attributes associated with control of saidenvironmental factors with respect to said operational characteristicsof said individual hardware storage devices; modifying, via said controlsystem, at least one environmental control attribute of saidenvironmental control attributes resulting in said modifying saidfunctionality of said array of hardware storage devices; and executingsaid first analyzing with respect to current environmental factors withrespect to said operational characteristics of said individual hardwarestorage device.
 17. The computer program product of claim 16, whereinsaid environmental control attributes comprise an action associated withmodifying an HVAC system for a structure comprising said array ofhardware storage devices.
 18. The computer program product of claim 17,wherein said HVAC system controls cooling functions, humidity functions,and airflow functions for said structure.
 19. The computer programproduct of claim 11, wherein said array of hardware storage devicescomprises a redundant array of independent disks (RAID).
 20. A hardwaredevice comprising a computer processor coupled to a computer-readablememory unit, said memory unit comprising instructions that when executedby the computer processor implements a memory device operationalimprovement method comprising: detecting, by said processor via aplurality of sensors, environmental factors affecting an operation ofindividual hardware storage devices within an array of hardware storagedevices; first analyzing, by said processor, said environmental factorswith respect to operational characteristics of said individual hardwarestorage devices; determining, by said processor based on results of saidfirst analyzing, an expected failure rate for each of said individualhardware storage devices; receiving, by said processor, data describinga hardware configuration for said array of hardware storage devices;second analyzing, by said processor, array parameters associated withsaid hardware configuration for said array of hardware storage deviceswith respect to each said expected failure rate; first determining, bysaid processor based on results of said second analyzing, a risk fordata loss with respect to malfunctions of said array of hardware storagedevices, an expected rebuild time for each of said individual hardwarestorage devices, and a number of additional hardware storage devicesrequired for stocking due to said malfunctions; second determining, bysaid processor based results of said first determining, reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks of said array of hardware storagedevices; determining, by said processor, that said reliabilitycharacteristics and associated risks are not within an acceptabletolerance level; and modifying, by said processor based on saiddetermining that said reliability characteristics and associated risksare not within said acceptable tolerance level, a functionality of saidarray of hardware storage devices thereby modifying an operation of atleast one of said individual hardware storage devices.